Archive for the ‘Helpful News’ category

Update Your Software When Prompted: The Key to Keeping Hackers at Bay

September 3rd, 2024

In our digitally driven world, keeping your software up to date is more than just a good habit—it’s a critical security measure. Every day, hackers are on the lookout for vulnerabilities in software that they can exploit to gain unauthorized access to networks. Once inside, they can steal sensitive information, cause disruptions, or even hold your data hostage.

The Importance of Software Updates

When software developers release an update, it’s not just about adding new features or improving performance; it’s often about fixing security vulnerabilities that have been discovered. These vulnerabilities, if left unpatched, can be exploited by hackers to gain access to your system. The longer you delay updating, the greater the risk that a cybercriminal will find and exploit these weaknesses.

Patching Vulnerabilities: Your First Line of Defense

Software updates, often referred to as “patches,” are designed to close these security gaps as soon as they are discovered. By applying patches promptly, you’re effectively locking the door on potential intruders. It’s a proactive approach to cybersecurity, ensuring that your information remains secure and out of the hands of those who would misuse it.

Why Prompt Updates Matter

When you’re prompted to update your software, it can be tempting to click “remind me later.” However, each time you delay, you’re leaving your system vulnerable. Hackers are constantly scanning for systems with known vulnerabilities, and unpatched software is like an open invitation. By updating your software as soon as you’re prompted, you minimize the time your system is exposed to potential threats.

Conclusion: Stay Safe, Stay Updated

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, staying one step ahead is crucial. By keeping your software up to date, you’re not only protecting your data but also contributing to a safer digital environment for everyone. So, the next time you’re prompted to update, don’t delay—take action and secure your network against potential attacks. Your vigilance is your best defense.

Call:  800.418.2358

E-mail account takeover represents 38% of the fraud happening online!

August 12th, 2024

Strange Emails: Ever received replies to messages you never sent? Or found mysterious emails lurking in your sent or deleted folders? These could be signs that someone else is using your account.

Unfamiliar Signatures: A signature you don’t recognize suddenly appears in your emails, or worse, your phone number is mysteriously altered. These subtle changes can be the work of a cybercriminal.

Profile Tweaks: Have you noticed unauthorized changes to your account profile, such as a new authentication method or an updated phone number? This is a common tactic used by hackers to secure their access.

Suspicious Auto-Forwarding: Imagine all emails containing the word “invoice” being secretly forwarded to an unknown address or sent straight to the trash. Cybercriminals use this trick to intercept and manipulate your messages without your knowledge.

Password Reset Requests: Are you suddenly receiving multiple password reset emails from various online services? This is a clear indication that someone is attempting to breach your other accounts.

Advanced Protection from Cisco Meraki: Safeguarding Your Network

July 19th, 2024

Consultation and Assessment:

The Computer Company’s experts can conduct a thorough assessment of your existing network infrastructure. They’ll identify vulnerabilities, evaluate your security posture, and recommend tailored solutions.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading an existing network, their consultants will guide you through the process.

Design and Deployment:

Implementing Cisco Meraki effectively requires a well-thought-out design. The Computer Company can create a customized network architecture that aligns with your business goals.

They’ll handle the deployment, ensuring seamless integration of Meraki firewalls, switches, and access points. From physical installation to cloud configuration, they’ve got you covered.

Security Policies and Best Practices:

The Computer Company will help define and enforce security policies. This includes setting up firewall rules, access controls, and content filtering.

They’ll educate your team on best practices—such as regular firmware updates, strong authentication, and network segmentation—to maintain a secure environment.

Monitoring and Incident Response:

Proactive monitoring is crucial. The Computer Company can set up alerts for suspicious activity, unauthorized access attempts, or anomalies.

In case of security incidents, they’ll guide you through incident response protocols, minimizing downtime and potential damage.

Scalability and Growth:

As your business expands, so does your network. The Computer Company will ensure that your Meraki infrastructure scales effortlessly.

Whether you’re opening new branches or adding more devices, they’ll optimize your network for growth.

Training and Support:

Transitioning to Meraki might involve a learning curve for your IT team. The Computer Company offers training sessions to empower your staff.

Plus, their ongoing support ensures that you’re never alone—whether it’s troubleshooting, fine-tuning configurations, or handling emergencies.

Remember, the Computer Company isn’t just about selling products; they’re your partners in securing and optimizing your network. With their expertise, you’ll harness the full potential of Cisco Meraki for advanced protection.

We can help you protect your business!
Find out more!

Contact the professionals at The Computer Company for a consultation.

Call:  800.418.2358

5 Tips for Office Security

May 16th, 2024

Best password managers 2024: Reviews of the top products – PCWorld

March 21st, 2024

If you’re still using your dog’s name to log in to your bank, you’re courting disaster.

By Michael Ansaldo
Freelance contributor, PCWorld 

We thought you would enjoy this article from PCWorld.

Humans are terrible at passwords. Simply put, we suck at creating them, we can never remember them, and we share them way too freely. Indeed, the very thing that can ensure our online security has become our biggest obstacle to it. And if you think you have good reasons not to use a password manager, here is why you’re wrong.

The best password managers relieve you of the burden of two of these problems—having to create and then memorize unique, complex logins on your own. Sharing your passwords is on you. Plus, these applications protect your passwords by encrypting your login info in a virtual vault—either locally or in the cloud—only allowing access with a single master password. So, if you’re looking to step up your security game, a password manager is one of the best ways to do it. And sure, web browsers are starting to offer password management features, but they’re not yet good enough. 

To read more, click here.

We can help you protect your business!
Find out more!

Contact the professionals at The Computer Company for a consultation.

Call:  800.418.2358

Stay Ahead of Cyber Threats with Penetration Testing!

February 23rd, 2024

Cybersecurity is a critical concern for businesses of all sizes in today’s digital age. With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, it’s essential for organizations to stay ahead of attackers by identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. Penetration testing, also known as pen testing, is a proactive approach to cybersecurity that can help organizations strengthen their systems and protect valuable data.

What is Penetration Testing?

Penetration testing is an attempted breach against a business’ systems to disclose application, web server, or network vulnerabilities. It involves employing techniques similar to those used by criminal hackers, but in an ethical manner. The process is carefully thought out and executed to make an organization’s systems stronger.

Find out more!

Contact the professionals at The Computer Company for a consultation.

Call:  800.418.2358

How Does Pen Testing Work?

The pen testing process typically involves several key steps:

1. Define the scope of the project: This includes identifying the systems and networks to be tested and the goals of the testing.

2. Reconnaissance: Gather all the necessary information needed: This involves gathering information about the target systems, such as IP addresses, domain names, and network configurations.

3. Scanning: Use all the information to assess vulnerabilities: This step involves using specialized tools to scan the target systems for known vulnerabilities.

4. Attempt: Utilize results from the scan to exploit the weaknesses and vulnerabilities: This step involves attempting to exploit the vulnerabilities identified in the scanning phase.

5. Exploitation: Controlled attacks are meant to act on the vulnerabilities: This step involves carrying out controlled attacks to exploit the vulnerabilities and gain access to the target systems.

6. Analysis: A compiled report detailing the vulnerabilities identified in the testing phase: This step involves compiling a report that details the vulnerabilities identified during the testing phase.

7. Remediation: The process of eliminating vulnerabilities by applying the right solutions and processes, and training staff members where necessary: This step involves addressing the vulnerabilities identified in the testing phase and implementing measures to prevent them from being exploited.

What are the benefits?

Penetration testing by the Computer Company is a critical component of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, organizations can protect their valuable data and stay ahead of attackers. With the right approach and expertise, penetration testing can help organizations strengthen their systems and protect against cyber threats.

Find out more!

Contact the professionals at The Computer Company for a consultation.

Call:  800.418.2358

What is CMMC Compliance, and Why Does It Matter to You?

January 19th, 2024

CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) is a system of compliance levels that helps the government, specifically the Department of Defense, determine whether an organization has the security necessary to work with controlled or otherwise vulnerable data.

Companies that are interested in working with the DoD will need to be CMMC rated and follow specific CMMC regulations. Generally, this is done by building and following a CMMC framework and using CMMC best practices.

The CMMC is designed to assess the maturity of an organization’s current cybersecurity initiatives. This includes whether the organization is capable of not only maintaining its security but also of improving its efficiency and optimization. It also includes whether an organization manages its security proactively or reactively, as well as how involved its security measures are.

Compliance with CMMC is important for all organizations. Let’s glance at what in-house advisors should know about compliance.

HOW Do we Get CMMC?

This can be a lengthy process; many organizations require the assistance of an expert partner to determine where they stand on the CMMC level system and whether there are discrepancies in their system or improvements that can be made.Creating the Best Logo by eManagerSite
This is what we can do for you!

WHO NEEDS CMMC CERTIFICATION?

Organizations working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and organizations that work with any level of classified DoD information need to be CMMC certified. If the company is handling high-value information, then it will likely need a Level 4 or higher clearance. However, clearances are set by individual projects.

HOW DO YOU GET CMMC CERTIFICATION?

Companies cannot certify themselves for the CMMC. Going through a third-party certification process is what those who work with government entities, as well as government contractors, will need to do. CMMC certification is overseen by the DoD and will have to be performed by a CMMC-certified company. The company performing the CMMC will need to verify that the company has all of their policies, procedures, and security processes in place. CMMC certification is one of the most popular types of security certification for a company to pursue.

With CMMC certification, the company will be able to pursue government contracts and deal with privileged information.

WHAT IF YOU DON’T WORK WITH THE GOVERNMENT?

If you’re interested in working with the government, your organization may find that CMMC compliance improves your chances. The contracts that require higher CMMC certification levels typically offer more benefits.

But that doesn’t mean you don’t need CMMC compliance if you aren’t working with government or DoD contracts. The fundamental ideas behind CMMC compliance revolve around consistent and proactive security best practices. Every organization should be able to achieve CMMC compliance, if only for their own peace of mind and security.

Are you interested in finding out whether your business meets CMMC compliance?

Contact the professionals at The Computer Company for a consultation.

Call:  800.418.2358

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Secure Your Business Continuity: TCC’s Robust Strategy

November 30th, 2023

In the fast-paced world of business, disruptions can come from various sources – natural disasters, human errors, or cyber threats. TCC, with its one year of dedicated service, stands as a reliable partner in safeguarding organizations of all sizes through its comprehensive Business Continuity Planning services.

Uninterrupted Protection with TCC’s State-of-the-Art Data Center

At TCC, we understand that a proper data backup and disaster recovery solution (BDR) is not just a priority; it’s the foundation of resilience. Our SSAE16 Type II certified facility, equipped with a gigabit backbone and secured fiber Internet connections, ensures uninterrupted service. In simple terms, our state-of-the-art Data Center guarantees the protection and availability of all critical business files and information precisely when needed.

High Availability for Critical Applications

Critical applications are the lifeblood of many businesses, impacting revenue, customer satisfaction, and market share. TCC’s top-of-the-line Data Center is designed around high availability, providing customers with hosting reliability, flexibility, and responsiveness. Our industry experts work tirelessly to offer leaders peace of mind and the stability their business requires 24x7x365.

Business Continuity Planning Services in Hartford, CT

Comprehensive Data Backup & Recovery

In an era where threats loom daily, TCC provides the necessary resources to minimize downtime and swiftly restore systems in the face of any challenge. Our comprehensive data backup and recovery services in Hartford, CT ensure that businesses have a reliable solution to protect their critical information. With the constant threat of cyberattacks, natural disasters, or technical failures, TCC understands the importance of having a robust plan in place. Our team of experts utilizes state-of-the-art technology and industry best practices to create customized backup strategies tailored to each business’s unique needs. We offer both onsite and offsite backups, providing an extra layer of security against potential data loss.

In the event of an unforeseen incident, our rapid response team is ready to spring into action. We prioritize minimizing downtime by swiftly restoring systems and getting businesses back up and running as soon as possible. Our advanced recovery solutions ensure that even in the face of a severe disruption, companies can quickly resume operations without significant disruptions.

TCC’s Business Continuity Planning Services go beyond simple data backup and recovery. We work closely with leaders to develop comprehensive contingency plans that outline step-by-step procedures for various scenarios.

Automated Backups

By leveraging a remote facility, we ensure that all critical files and information are safeguarded, ready for immediate recovery in the event of a complete outage or catastrophe.

Replication

Move beyond traditional offsite tape storage. Our replicated solution connects in-house physical servers to a hosted recovery platform, ensuring continuous operation.

Cold & Hot Sites

From hosting real-time copies for immediate restoration (hot site) to acting as a staging area for manual restoration (cold site), we provide the infrastructure needed for both scenarios.

Colocation Services for Enhanced Protection

Outsourcing data center operations has become a strategic move in today’s competitive business environment. TCC’s colocation services not only save organizations thousands of dollars annually but also liberate leaders to focus on core business matters.

Our facilities offer a reliable, secure, and controlled atmosphere, continuously monitored by a team of experienced engineers and technicians. TCC’s colocation solutions evolve to meet an organization’s ever-changing needs, serving clients from coast to coast with the highest quality equipment and Internet bandwidth available.

Complete Business Continuity Planning with TCC

Data loss is a prevalent fear in today’s digital landscape. TCC’s mission is to turn potential crises into manageable inconveniences through proactive measures:

  • Automatic & Regular Backups
  • Cost-Effective Replication & Monitoring
  • Off-Site Storage
  • Remote Office Space
  • Quick Response Times

In conclusion, a comprehensive approach to business continuity planning is essential for safeguarding against potential disruptions and ensuring the ongoing success of any organization. At TCC, our recovery consulting solutions are designed not only to respond effectively to challenges as they arise but also to proactively prevent them from occurring. With our dedicated partnership, we aim to minimize the impact of disruptions and restore business systems to full capabilities swiftly and efficiently. We remain steadfast in our dedication to ensuring business resilience in an ever-evolving landscape. Contact us today to learn more about how TCC can help your organization establish a robust business continuity plan that stands the test of time.

Call to learn more: 800-418-2358

 

 

A Cloud Service may cut your energy costs 75%!

June 8th, 2023

Cloud computing is becoming common and is transforming the way many businesses deliver and receive their IT services.

cloud

Providers of cloud computing connects many businesses, small and large, to shared servers containing shared programs. This allows cloud customers to reduce their costs because they no longer need to purchase the infrastructure, let alone manage and maintain it. Cloud users have the ability to pay for the resources only as they need them.

They are no longer hindered by predicting server traffic; customers on the cloud are given the freedom to promote and grow their business online as strongly and as often as they want.

Call The Computer Company at 800.418.2358 and get your questions answered.

  • However, not only does cloud computing save the customer money, providers of cloud computing are actually administering a green, sustainable way to run a business.
  • A study conducted by Microsoft found that organizations, ranging from 100 to 1000 employees, can reduce up to 90 percent of their emissions by moving their business from on-premise business applications to those within a shared cloud.
  • While Microsoft conducted the test on only their products, it is safe to say the findings apply to other cloud computing solutions.
  • IT administrators should take advantage of the opportunity to reduce their environmental impact and achieve sustainability goals.

Why does this matter to you?

If you run a small business, your server infrastructure can be highly expensive to operate and may run at low utilization or even be idle for a good portion of the day. On-premise applications tend to run at a lower average utilization rate. Instead of taking on expense and maintenance hassles for on-site technology, invest in cloud computing. As the number of users in a cloud increases, the user-to-server ratio increases, and demand fluctuations decrease. This means demand can be predicted and allocated appropriately without deploying “just-in-case” infrastructure. Servers can function at a stable rate, with a lower energy cost.

Join the thousands of businesses who have decreased their energy costs and reduced their carbon footprint by sharing “cloud” services with other users. The Computer Company, Inc. is ready to support both the growth and sustainability goals of your business with cloud computing options.

The Computer Company (TCC) offers full managed IT services and break-fix outsourcing to Hartford organizations of all sizes.

Our professional IT management  engineers help businesses take advantage of their technology. In turn, this enables them to increase efficiencies, improve effectiveness, and reach new goals. We provide the analysis, expertise, tools, and monitoring to help solve all tough business challenges through advanced solutions. So, if you have been on the hunt for a service provider you can depend on, the search stops here!

Call The Computer Company at 800.418.2358 and get your questions answered.

 

Protecting Your Business in the Age of Cyber Threats: Why EDR and MDR Solutions are Essential

May 5th, 2023

In today’s world, cyber threats are becoming more frequent and sophisticated, and businesses of all sizes are at risk. To protect their digital assets, companies are investing in cybersecurity solutions such as Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and Managed Detection and Response (MDR).

 

EDR provides continuous monitoring and real-time visibility into endpoint devices such as desktops, laptops, and servers. It uses various techniques to detect security threats and responds by containing and remediating the threat. On the other hand, MDR is a service that provides continuous monitoring, detection, and response to security incidents across an organization’s entire IT environment. It can detect advanced threats that traditional security tools may miss and helps businesses meet compliance requirements.

Businesses need EDR and MDR solutions because they provide continuous monitoring, advanced threat detection, incident response capabilities, and help meet compliance requirements. By having these solutions in place, businesses can detect and respond to threats in real-time, reducing the risk of a cyber-attack, and minimize the impact of a cyber-attack.

If Your System Fails, Could You Recover?
Call now to ask questions: 800-418-2358

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR):

EDR is a security solution that provides continuous monitoring and real-time visibility into endpoint devices such as desktops, laptops, and servers. EDR tools are designed to detect and respond to security threats on the endpoints. These solutions rely on endpoint agents that are installed on each device to collect and analyze security data. The agents continuously monitor endpoint activity, network traffic, system logs, and other relevant data sources to detect security threats.

EDR tools use various techniques to detect threats. For example, they use behavioral analysis to identify anomalous behavior such as the execution of suspicious processes, attempts to bypass security controls, or changes to system configurations. They can also detect known malware and use threat intelligence feeds to identify indicators of compromise (IoCs).

When a security threat is detected, EDR tools respond by containing and remediating the threat. For example, they can isolate an infected device from the network, terminate malicious processes, and delete malicious files. Many EDR solutions also provide advanced capabilities such as forensic analysis, threat hunting, and incident response.

Managed Detection and Response (MDR):

MDR is a service that provides continuous monitoring, detection, and response to security incidents across an organization’s entire IT environment, including endpoints, networks, and cloud infrastructure. MDR services are provided by third-party vendors who specialize in detecting and responding to advanced threats that traditional security tools may miss. MDR services typically use a combination of human expertise and advanced technologies like machine learning to detect and respond to threats.

MDR services provide a higher level of protection compared to traditional endpoint security solutions. They can detect threats that may go unnoticed by other security tools. MDR providers typically use a Security Operations Center (SOC) that is staffed with security experts who are responsible for monitoring and responding to threats. The SOC uses advanced technologies like threat intelligence feeds, behavioral analysis, and machine learning to detect and respond to threats in real-time.

MDR services can also help organizations meet compliance requirements. For example, the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requires companies to monitor their networks and systems for security incidents continuously. MDR services can help organizations meet these requirements by providing continuous monitoring, threat detection, and incident response capabilities.

Why does your businesses need EDR and MDR?

The need for EDR and MDR solutions has never been greater. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and frequent, and businesses of all sizes are at risk. Businesses need EDR and MDR solutions because they provide continuous monitoring, advanced threat detection, incident response capabilities, and help meet compliance requirements. By having these solutions in place, businesses can detect and respond to threats in real-time, reducing the risk of a cyber-attack, and minimize the impact of a cyber-attack.

If Your System Fails, Could You Recover?
Call now to ask questions: 800-418-2358